Secrets of Laos: Temples, villages & the Mekong River

Begin your journey with included UK airport lounge access before flying overnight to Vientiane, one of south-east Asia's most laid-back capitals.

Arrive in Vientiane, where you’ll be met by a local guide and transferred to your hotel. Vientiane, the charming capital of Laos, offers a blend of French colonial charm and Buddhist influences. Set on the banks of the Mekong River, the city is relaxed and laid-back, with tree-lined boulevards, serene little-known temples and vibrant night markets.

After check-in, explore the city’s highlights, including the atmospheric Wat Sisaket, home to over 6,000 Buddha images, and the revered Phra That Luang stupa, a national symbol of Laos. Gain insight into Laos’ more recent history at the COPE Centre, before enjoying lunch at a charming French colonial restaurant. In the evening, with a local guide, take a tuk-tuk food tour through bustling night markets and discover authentic Lao dishes, including the traditional BBQ-style 'sindat'.

This morning, take a high-speed train north through Laos’ stunning mountain landscapes to Vang Vieng. On arrival, explore the beautiful countryside on foot with a guided walk through a Hmong village and to the Elephant Cave, known for its distinctive stalactites and ancient Buddha images.

Continue to a local organic farm before enjoying a gentle kayak or longtail boat ride along the peaceful Nam Song River. After a riverside lunch, visit Tham Chang Cave – located on the banks of the Nam Song River – where, after ascending the steps to the cave entrance, you can enjoy panoramic views of the river, spectacular karst limestone formations and the quaint town of VangVieng. The cave is quite deep and makes for amazing exploration opportunities. At the base of the cave is a natural spring which is fed by the icy cool cave water. This is a very popular swimming pool for the local people and the water is believed to have special medicinal qualities.

In the evening, return to Vientiane by train and transfer back to your hotel.

This morning your Mekong adventure begins as you depart by coach to Pak Lay, where you’ll board the elegant Bohème. Charming and elegant, this stylish river boat offers an intimate way to explore the Mekong River and a slower-paced alternative to traveling by road. Enjoy a traditional Baci blessing ceremony before setting sail on your journey upriver along the Mekong, the lifeblood of Laos.

Settle into your beautifully appointed Deluxe Suite, with expansive windows offering unrivalled views of the river and the lush surroundings as they pass by. As you glide along the Mekong, you’ll pass tranquil villages nestled against verdant hillsides, and see traditional wooden boats drifting past. Lunch is served in the refined Dining Salon, where delicious, locally-inspired dishes will be prepared with the freshest ingredients. Your day will be filled with laid-back luxury, with a cocktail hour offering a perfect moment to savour a refreshing drink while watching the sun set over the river.

The evening unfolds with a beautifully presented on board dinner, where local flavours are paired with exquisite international wines. As the boat moors for the night in the peaceful village of Pha Liep, you’ll find yourself immersed in the serenity of the river – a truly memorable first night on the Bohème.

Wake up early and enjoy a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee, followed by a light breakfast, as the Bohème embarks on its next leg upstream. From the moment the boat sets sail, you’ll be surrounded by the grandeur of the Mekong’s landscapes, with verdant, jungle-clad hills, isolated riverbanks and the occasional sight of a remote village tucked along the shoreline – this is the heart of Laos.

Take a morning walk in Pha Liep Village, where you’ll be invited into the life of a traditional Lao community, where customs have remained unchanged for centuries. The village’s simplicity and charm will captivate you as you meet the local residents who will share their way of life and age-old traditions. Afterward, enjoy lunch onboard before continuing your cruise to Ban Kok Fark.

As the Bohème sets sail once more, spend the afternoon at your leisure, whether you choose to relax in your suite or unwind in the lounge. Take in the views from the deck as you sail past limestone cliffs that rise dramatically from the river, casting long shadows in the afternoon light. Your evening cocktail hour will be another chance to socialise or simply soak in the landscape. Dinner will again feature exquisite dishes inspired by the flavours of Laos.

Today, after breakfast, you’ll visit the village of Ban Kok Fark, a charming, remote settlement where life is still very much influenced by the river and its bounty. Meet with the villagers and learn about their culture, their traditional crafts, and the ways in which they interact with the Mekong. Your exploration continues with a journey through the Xayaboury Dam, where the Bohème will navigate through an impressive stretch of water, offering stunning views of the river’s vastness.

Onboard, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in some onboard activities, including a cooking class or cocktail masterclass with expert chefs and bartenders, giving you an opportunity to learn the art of Lao cuisine or craft the perfect cocktail. The majestic backdrop of the river adds an extra layer of magic to these experiences. As the day winds down, enjoy your cocktail hour while the sun dips behind the hills. The evening’s dinner will be served with fresh ingredients, expertly prepared to offer a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

Start your day with breakfast on the sun-kissed deck of the Bohème, as the morning mist rises from the Mekong River. Today, visit a neaby Elephant Conservation Centre, a sanctuary dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of the endangered elephants of Laos. As you walk through the lush forest with these magnificent animals, you’ll learn about the conservation efforts and the deep bond between the elephants and the local people. This is a rare, intimate experience with one of nature’s most majestic creatures.

Return to the Bohème for a leisurely lunch onboard, before continuing upstream to Muang Khay, passing small fishing villages, rice fields and forests that provide a window into the rural life along the Mekong. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps taking a moment to enjoy a relaxing massage, read a book in the lounge, or simply bask in the beauty of the ever-changing river landscapes. As dusk approaches, the river’s golden reflections will frame another stunning cocktail hour and dinner experience.

After breakfast, your cruise will take you to the picturesque Kuang Si Waterfalls, where the waters cascade down into clear, turquoise pools. The area around the falls is lush and green, and you’ll have the opportunity to explore and even swim in the cool, refreshing waters. A picnic lunch by the falls offers the perfect setting to relax and take in the serene surroundings.

Back on board the Bohème, continue your journey upriver toward Ban Xang Khong, the famous paper village. On your way, enjoy a cocktail hour at sunset, watching the light fade over the river, before dinner features fresh, local dishes.

Perhaps enjoy a hot coffee or tea, paired with freshly baked bread and pastries to start the day. The morning is yours to relax and soak in the serene views from the deck of the Bohème as it glides along the river. Later, enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board before visiting Ban Xang Khong, the famous Saa Paper Village, where you can observe local artisans crafting traditional paper from mulberry bark.

Return to the boat for a scenic departure upriver to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, it is time to bid farewell to the Bohème as you are met by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the town's rich cultural heritage. We recommend visiting the night market, where you can browse a wide variety of handmade crafts and local textiles.

Start your day at dawn to witness the iconic tak bat ceremony, where hundreds of saffron-robed monks walk through the streets at dawn to collect alms. Your guide will share the significance of this deeply rooted tradition. Afterward, explore the vibrant morning market for a taste of local life. Following breakfast, head to MandaLao Elephant Camp for an unforgettable experience with elephants. Learn about elephant behaviour and communication before trekking through lush jungle and gardens alongside these majestic animals. You’ll have the chance to feed the elephants and watch them interact in their natural environment.

Enjoy lunch by the river before your afternoon sightseeing tour. Visit Luang Prabang’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, starting with a special monk blessing ceremony for good luck. Continue to explore the stunning Wat Xieng Thong, one of the city’s most beautiful temples, and visit Wat Mano, a monk school where you can meet a young monk. If you’re up for it, climb the 350 steps to Phou Si hill for panoramic views of the city.

Today is a free day for you to explore at your leisure. For those looking to dive deeper into Lao culture, you can join an optional cooking class. Visit the local market with your chef guide, then learn to prepare traditional Lao dishes in a family home. Enjoy your three-course meal, accompanied by homemade drinks, and discover the secrets of Lao cuisine.

Alternatively, join the Foodie & Cocktail Adventure, an evening tour of Luang Prabang’s street food scene. From exotic fruit stalls to fried insects, experience the city's vibrant nightlife and culinary delights, all while enjoying fusion cocktails and classic Lao dishes.

Enjoy a relaxing morning at your leisure to explore more of Luang Prabang or shop for souvenirs. Depending on your flight time, you’ll be transferred to the airport accordingly for your flight back to the UK, arriving on day 13.